Olfactory precipitants of flashbacks in posttraumatic stress disorder: case reports

The phenomenon of vivid flashbacks elicited by olfactory stimuli is described in two combat veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Although many sensory and cognitive cues can elicit flashback phenomena, smell has distinctive characteristics that make evocation of vivid olfactory memories particularly likely. It is recommended that clinicians inquire specifically about olfactory precipitants when evaluating combat veterans disabled by PTSD flashbacks.